Kylian Mbappe should return to the French national team against Croatia after a six -month absence.
Captain Les Bleus will lead the team in Split for the first part of the quarterfinals of their nations on Thursday and the second leg scheduled for Sunday in Stade de France.
This indicates the first start of Mbappe to France from their 3-1 defeat in Italy on September 6, a match that happened at Parc des princess, the home field of his former club Paris Saint-Germain.
Referring to that period, Mbappe admitted that he did not manage the situation – which is why he was under control because he asked to play only important games for his country – well.
“I’m lucid enough to know what I’m doing well and what I’m not doing well. I know people were not happy with what I did on the field and out of the field, and I didn’t do them well,” Mbappe said during a press conference before the match.
“I have no problem questioning myself. I never had a problem with criticism when it was deserved and well handed over.”
Back in September, the French star fought for the form and Real Madrid is the national team. At the time, he rejected external opinions, stating that “the least of my worries.”
In addition, he had previously reduced the concern about returning to the PSG stadium after his great departure, which was marked by tense relations with club management and supporters.
🇭🇷 Modric vs mbappé 🇫🇷#Nationleague pic.twitter.com/kzf4a89ena
– UEFA EURO (@UEFAEURO) 20. March 2025
Now, six months later, he admits that some criticisms he faced at the time were justified.
“I didn’t play well against Italy and my [pre-match] The press conference did not please people, because as a captain I did not gather people, “he admitted.
“I accept that, but now it is most important to move forward and not repeat the same mistakes.”
There were speculations of whether he would keep the captain, but after talking to Chief coach Didier Deschamps, he held his leading role.
In November, Mbappe was omitted from the French nation of the League against Israel and Italy, and Deschamps at the time stated that it was “better so” given the physical and mental state of forward.
His absence from the previous international window due to a minor thigh injury also caused controversy because he continued to play for Real Madrid, although he was not available for national duty.
This led to frustration among French fans and asked questions about his priorities between the club and the country.
However, Mbappe has since rediscovered its form of Real Madrid and was fertile this season, scoring 31 goals in 44 appearances.
“I feel good, I feel happy to play football,” he said. “I’m happy to be here to help [France] team.”
